Each year, the University of Maine asks selected student-athletes “What it meant to be a Black Bear”. The following are quotes from some of our outstanding student-athletes:
"Being a student-athlete at Maine has taught me too many valuable skills to completely list. My time management, organization, perseverance and leadership skills were all refined and tested. My teammates are some of the most incredible and dedicated people I have met. I have developed friendships both here at Maine and within the America East throwing community that I am nothing short of grateful for. I look forward to what the future holds for me, knowing that I was once and always will be a Black Bear." – Wilson Adams
“Being a Black Bear and wearing the Maine uniform had always been a dream of mine. One of the most memorable days of my life was finding out I made the hockey team. Because of UMaine athletics, I have so many fond memories to look back on, whether it was time spent with my teammates, playing in close games, or just the everyday experiences of being a part of the Black Bear community. I have developed a very strong sense of pride for my team, university, and state. I would not trade my experience at UMaine for anything, and I consider myself very fortunate to be a Black Bear.” – Katy Massey, 2015 University of Maine salutatorian.
“Being a Black Bear meant being part of a team that extended from the players I stepped onto the field with every day to the coaching staff, teachers, fellow athletes and classmates. It is this sense of togetherness that makes me the most proud to have had the opportunity to represent the University of Maine. Now that my four years are finished, I truly understand the values of the UMaine community: never giving up, always giving back, and remembering to give thanks to those that help you along your path. These are messages that will last a lifetime, therefore bringing meaning to our famous saying– "Once a Black Bear, always a Black Bear". - Holly Stewart
“I can remember the first day I stepped foot on campus. Given the privilege to wear the Maine jersey for the last four years has been incredible. So many great athletes have come through this program and it is an honor to share that tradition. I will remember and cherish the relationships I made here at the University of Maine. There is nothing that compares to a Black Bear teammate and I am incredibly lucky to have had that experience.” - Connor Leen
“It has been such an honor representing my home state here at the University of Maine, putting on the Maine jersey and calling myself a Black Bear. The past four years here have undoubtedly been the best four years of my life. I learned a lot about life in general as well as a lot about myself and gained some life-long friends along the way. It felt exceptional to be part of something bigger than myself, to be part of a team, a family. It's put me in a great position to be successful moving forward in life. Forever a Black Bear! – Jordan Pellerin
"The last four years here at Maine have been the best of my life. The people who surrounded me everyday are people that will always hold a place close to my heart. I have made countless friends and memories that I will cherish forever. I cannot be more thankful for the opportunity I received the past four years. The experiences here at Maine have made me a better student, a better athlete, and a better person. I am blessed to have had the experiences that UMaine, and the people here, have afforded me." – Scott Heath
“Over these past four years as a University of Maine Black Bear, I have made lifelong friends, gained pride, and learned to be tough. Being a student-athlete has taught me lessons about passion for my sport and respect for my teammates which will greatly assist me in my future. In order to be a successful student-athlete, not only must a person balance academics and athletics, one must also be prepared for any of the obstacles that can come along the way such as stress, injuries, and even lack of sleep. Not only has competing as a Black Bear made me physically tough, it made me mentally strong and these are traits I will take with me for the rest of my life. “ – Carolyn Stocker
“Becoming a Black Bear has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Being able to represent the University of Maine has been a sincere privilege and I will cherish the time I have spent here for the rest of my life. After attending this university I can say with absolute certainty that I am now leaving a harder worker, a kinder person, and a proud graduate. Go Blue!” - EmJ Fogel
“I take so much pride in being a Black Bear. The UMaine swimming and diving team has given me the opportunity to live my dream of competing and thriving at the Division I level. I wouldn’t be anywhere without the goodwill of my coaches and teammates. They all saw potential in me even before I broke my first record. My UMaine family has inspired me beyond belief and because of this, I attribute my all of my achievements the ambiance that they have provided for me. I am incredibly honored to have been apart of this team. We are graduating some wonderful seniors but I can speak for all of us when I say that UMaine has provided us with a solid platform on which to build our lives. Once a Black Bear, always a Black Bear.” - Naja Harvey
"Being a Black Bear felt like I was always part of a family. As the years went by, I learned to prepare, present and perform for every obstacle or situation that came my way. Every athlete or student should be proud to be called a Black Bear." - Axel Ofori
“Black Bear Nation has taken me under their wing during my time here and they have become my family. I am so proud to be a Black Bear for life. I am grateful to all of those who helped me along the way to getting my degree!” - Courtney Anderson
